Visual Metronome Circuit Splitter for Drum Kit Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metronome devices, particularly in live performance settings, face challenges in providing precise tempo indication due to high decibel levels and the impracticality of audible cues, and may not effectively synchronize multiple musicians at disparate locations.
Innovation Solution
A visual metronome system utilizing a circuit splitter to distribute a flashing light signal to multiple drum locations, employing a pod arrangement of colored lights for enhanced visibility and precision, allowing musicians to maintain tempo without relying on sound cues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If audible metronome cues are used in live performance settings, then musicians can receive tempo indication, but the high decibel levels make it impractical and interfere with performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the acoustic signal transmission mechanism with an optical signal transmission mechanism. Instead of using audible clicks that produce harmful high decibel levels, the invention uses visual light signals from LEDs to convey tempo information, thereby eliminating the harmful acoustic effect while maintaining reliable tempo indication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of signal transmission from acoustic (audible) to optical (visible). By transforming the metronome signal from sound waves to light waves, the system eliminates the harmful high decibel levels while preserving the tempo indication function through visual perception.
2Reliability
If a single metronome is used, then tempo signals can be generated, but musicians at disparate locations cannot be effectively synchronized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal distribution system by placing individual LED light sources at multiple discrete locations around the drum kit (on different drums and cymbals). This segmentation allows each location to receive and display the tempo signal independently, enabling effective synchronization for musicians at disparate locations without requiring complex centralized signal distribution infrastructure.
3Illumination intensity
If standard single-color LEDs are used, then the metronome signal can be displayed, but visibility is reduced in various stage lighting situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different colors to different LED locations based on their specific lighting conditions and visibility requirements. For example, certain locations may use LEDs with colors that provide better contrast against the background or are more visible under specific stage lighting conditions, thereby optimizing overall visibility across diverse stage environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes color changes by incorporating multi-color LEDs (such as RGB LEDs) that can emit different colors. This allows the system to adapt to various stage lighting situations by selecting appropriate colors that maintain visibility and contrast, thereby enhancing both illumination intensity and adaptability to different performance environments.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The visual metronome system provides improved precision and synchronization among musicians by using light signals that travel faster than sound, effectively addressing the limitations of audible metronomes in live performances and accommodating hearing-impaired individuals or noisy environments.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of individual light emitting components are in operative communication with the circuit splitter
Data Source
AI summary
A visual metronome for use with a drum kit, including circuitry for generating a succession of light signals according to a selected flashing pattern defined by frequency and duration. A circuit splitter is in operative communication with the metronome for multiplying the light signals. A plurality of individual light emitting components are in operative communication with the circuit splitter, the light emitting components being mounted to individual components associated with the drum kit to simultaneously display the flashing pattern corresponding to the multiplied light output signals at locations visible to a user of the drum kit. A plurality of cables extend between the circuit splitter and respective light emitting components. The light emitting components can each further include a different color in order to provide enhanced visibility in various stage lighting situations. A power supply communicates the metronome, including any of a battery or a 9V power outlet plug.